SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois health officials are urging residents to take immediate action against seasonal respiratory illnesses as influenza rates surge to alarming levels across the state.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reports that flu activity in the state has climbed to “Very High” in recent days. The most severe of five categories of respiratory illness activity as defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In addition, COVID-19 rates have climbed to “Moderate” levels in Illinois. These trends mirror what is being seen across the nation.
Illinois has reported its first influenza death in a child this season. Nationally, there have been nine pediatric deaths due to influenza this season.
During the 2024-2025 season, Illinois reported 12 pediatric deaths from influenza, 6 from RSV and 3 from COVID-19.
According to IDPH’s Illinois Vaccination Coverage Dashboards, only 21.9% of Illinoisans have received their flu shot this season, while just 6.8% have received the updated COVID-19 immunization.
“Illinois is facing a significant winter surge in seasonal respiratory illnesses with flu activity at very high levels,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Vaccinations remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness from flu, COVID-19, and RSV.”
With flu season usually peaking between December and February and lasting until May, health officials say it’s not too late to get immunized.
“Simple steps like covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands regularly, staying home when sick if you are able, and improving ventilation are also critical to preventing further spread,” Dr. Vohra said.
Dr. Vohra emphasized the importance of early treatment: “If you develop symptoms, it is important to get evaluated and treated early in your illness, especially if you are 65 years or older, are a young child under the age of 2 years, are pregnant, have chronic conditions, or care for someone at risk.”
IDPH recommends the following steps to reduce your risk:
- Get immunized. With flu season usually peaking between December and February, and lasting until May, it’s not too late to get your flu shot and other immunizations, such as for COVID-19 and RSV (for those who are eligible). For more information on respiratory illness vaccines, view IDPH’s immunization guidelines.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water – it is one of the most effective ways to reduce spread of illness. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective if soap and water are not available.
- Stay home when you are ill, if able, and wear a mask if not.
- Cover coughs and sneezes. Wearing a mask when ill will further help prevent viral spread. An N95 or comparable mask offers the best protection.
- Minimize close contact with sick people.
- Antiviral treatments can minimize symptoms and speed up recovery when started quickly after symptoms emerge. Antiviral treatments for flu are most effective when given within 48 hours of starting to feel ill. For COVID-19, treatment must be started within 5 to 7 days after symptoms appear. Older adults, young children and those who are pregnant or have certain underlying conditions are at risk for complications and should contact a healthcare provider to be assessed for the need for treatment as soon as possible.
To find more information from IDPH about infectious respiratory illnesses, click here.
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